Highland Lakes Elementary School

We’ve had two children attend Curlew Creek Elementary, one who has already graduated and another currently in 4th grade, and our experience has been nothing short of amazing. In all our years at the school, we have never had a negative experience with a teacher or staff member. Every teacher and administrator we’ve encountered genuinely cares about what is best for each child and works hard to support their unique needs.One of the things that makes Curlew Creek so special is the strong sense of community. There are many involved families who support the teachers and hold their children accountable for learning and education. The PTA is very active and plans wonderful events like Trunk or Treat and the Carnival that bring families together and make the school experience even more memorable.The administration is always available, responsive, and supportive. Most importantly, the teachers at Curlew Creek are exceptional. I would confidently put the quality of our teachers up against any public, private, or charter school in the area. We truly have the absolute best teachers at Curlew Creek, and we feel incredibly fortunate to be part of this school community!

Administration is terrible. The assistant principal is more involved than Cantu, the actual principal. Another parent mentioned that there's a lot of parent involvement, which isn't true. Maybe at that time? But it's no longer. They couldn't even get parents to sign up for PTA positions this year. They did end up finally filling spots, but it's obviously not great "parent involvement". They have only two real events a year, Trunk or Treat and a Field Day. Only one of them is fun for the kids (trunk or treat), the other is just a money grab to fund a PTA that adds nothing to the school in terms of improvements. I'd like to see where the money is being spent because it's not on upgrades. The school itself is outdated, the outside PE area has dirt, ants, and old equipment. The classrooms and desks are subpar at best. No school dance, fun days, student lead activities, nothing that other schools get. If you have a child of special needs, especially physical, they do not accommodate here. If you have an issue with a teacher, they will say nothing to the teacher and pretty much tell you "too bad, can't make everyone happy", especially if the teacher has decent testing scores. Teacher communication is nonexistent. They do not challenge students to be better. They focus on the ones that will hurt their overall school score, but will not assist an already educationally inclined student to become better. Because of the area the school is in, it does attract a nicer array of students. This does help the overall rating of the school but the the roots (admin) are rotten here. It's just so unfortunate that there's not much to pick from in terms of quality around here, and when you think you found a gem, it's really just dung wrapped in some tin foil. Overall, would not recommend.

Lake St. George Elementary’s, teachers and the administration has welcomed my children in with open arms! The school has very clear goals and objectives for the safety, learning and well-being of every kid. The teaching staff and administration along with the front office are always so warm and welcoming. My children’s test scores have risen so much since coming to the school.

We’ve been part of PHMA for the past five years, and I truly can’t say enough positive things about our experience. When my son first started, he was very shy and struggled with confidence and assertiveness. Over the years, we’ve watched him grow into a much more confident, social, and well-rounded child.The Montessori environment has played such a big role in that transformation. The teachers are incredibly patient, nurturing, and intentional about helping each child develop at their own pace, not just academically, but emotionally and socially as well.My son has built meaningful friendships, feels comfortable expressing himself, and has even stepped outside his comfort zone to join sports teams, something we never would have imagined in the beginning. That growth alone speaks volumes about the supportive and empowering atmosphere at the school.We are so grateful to be part of this community and highly recommend PHMA to any family looking for a school that truly invests in the whole child.

My experience was really amazing, the teachers and staff worked well together and did a terrific job with the kids. The Montessori way is very good for all ages and makes for very interesting work times with the children. They learn and have fun at the same time, which is quite thrilling to watch. Love this school and all the teachers and staff.